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Network Seven set to launch new high definition simulcast channel for its main channel

Network Seven appears set to follow rival Nine by launching a simulcast high definition channel for its main channel.

Image courtesy of EFTM

Image courtesy of EFTM

A new channel has appeared on electronic program guides at Channel 76 which currently features a holding slide with the Seven logo on it announcing a “new channel coming soon.”

The move comes just weeks after Nine announced it would convert multichannel Gem to standard definition and launch 9HD in time to coincide with the launch of the cricket season in November.

If it is a new high definition channel Seven would have to convert its current HD offering 7Mate to standard definition.

Tech website EFTM first spotted the move however Seven would not elaborate on the new channel with a spokesman telling Mumbrella: “Watch this space”.

Another possibility is the network could launch a new lifestyle style channel to rival Nine’s recent launch of NineLife.

Nine’s shift to 9HD has not been without problems with a number of consumers with older HD sets getting audio only due to the sets not being MPEG4 compatible.

Seven’s new channel is also to also likely to be MPEG4 meaning many consumers who want HD may be forced to upgrade.

February 7 update: Seven reveals new channel – 7flix

Nic Christensen

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